Saturday night at New York’s Madison Square Garden, on the undercard of Golovkin vs. Lemieux, Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz displayed impressive power and skill en route to a third round KO in the 3rd round of Matias Ariel Vidondo (20-2, 18 KOs) to win the interim WBA World heavyweight title.

A Cuban amateur standout, Ortiz improved his record to 23-0 (20 KOs) and recaptured the belt that he lost following a positive PED test in 2014.

“King Kong” wasted no time in attacking Vidondo, throwing powerful hooks to the body and head that resulted in a knockdown in round two. In round three Ortiz bludgeoned Vidondo with a left hand to the head which left him face down on the canvas. Referee Shada Murdaugh immediately waved off the fight.

After the fight, the Cuban’s promoter Oscar De La Hoya said he intended to talk to HBO about a quick return for Ortiz against good opposition in hopes of getting a shot at WBA Super heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko. Ortiz also spoke of his desire to be chosen as Dr. Steelhammer’s future opponent.

“I deserve this win and deserve to fight the best,” said Ortiz. “Vidondo did hit hard but he wasn’t good enough to face me. Everyone can see that I dominated the fight. I want to fight the best and I want Golden Boy Promotions to keep its promise and get me the best. I am ready for Klitschko. I know he is running from me. I am going to come after him. I am just ready to become the heavyweight champion of the world.”

Among other opponents that could be chosen for Ortiz are WBA World heavyweight champion Ruslan Chagaev and #3 ranked Lucas Browne, who is currently the mandatory to fight Chagaev for his title.

This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.